Communication Department Learning Goals and Outcomes

Upon graduation, students will be able to demonstrate their achievement of the following
goals and their accompanying set of learning outcomes.

Goal 1: Understanding of Discipline

Students are able to recognize and appreciate core principles of the discipline. This
includes an appreciation of the depth of the discipline (beyond our 3 concentrations),
the intersections between our concentrations, and an ability to recognize presence/non-presence
of disciplinary ideas in everyday life.

Related Learning Outcomes:

Identify the specific history and fundamental theories of the discipline of Communication.

Recognize current communication issues and trends.

Define and identify key communication concepts.

Goal 2: Creative and Critical Thinking

Students are able to assess a communication situation and develop appropriate solutions
that address the key aspects of that situation. This includes articulating the definition
of the situation and justification of decisions made throughout the process.

Related Outcomes

Apply critical and analytical thinking to communication problems.

Devise creative and original solutions to communication problems.

Goal 3: Performance Skills

Students are able to demonstrate key skills that are considered central to professional
practice, regardless of field of specialization. Students should be able to provide
examples of work completed that demonstrates application of these skills.

Related Outcomes

Write professionally in forms and styles appropriate for the intended audience and
purpose.

Demonstrate effective behavior in group settings.

Employ effective verbal and nonverbal communication skills in professional and personal
contexts.

Apply tools and technologies appropriate for the communication profession in which
you work.

Goal 4: Personal and Professional Identity

Students are able to convey a professional demeanor in a variety of contexts. This
includes assessing situations and adjusting behaviors appropriately. In addition,
students are able to self-assess their own behaviors/products and are able to gauge
the quality of their own performance based on professional standards. Student decisions
and descriptions of behaviors should be grounded in a ethical practice and respect
for diversity.

Related Outcomes:

Demonstrate a recognition and appreciation of diverse cultures in a global society.

Endorse and commit to practicing principles of ethical communication.

Reflect and assess communication competence in relation to self and others.